The beaches along False Bay are idyllic day-out destinations for families with young kids. Dotted along the coastline from Muizenberg, St James and Kalk Bay to Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town, they provide safe and relatively warm swimming in their waters. With sand banks that stretch out for miles, there are few deep drop-offs and mostly calm waves and tidal pools.
Fish Hoek beach is just up the road from our house and a favourite for its realm of entertainment options for youngsters. After running around this long stretch of beach, and playing in the calm water, we often head up to the little coffee shop for soft-serve ice creams, or toasted sandwiches out on the deck. It’s perfect for those balmy winter days, when gentle northwesterly winds keep the bay calm, while in peak season it’s less crowded than the Atlantic Seaboard. The playground opposite has swings, jungle gyms and slides for older kids as well as small rides for young toddlers.
On the promenade that stretches around the coast towards Simon’s Town, you’ll see mothers pushing small babies in prams and elderly couples walking hand in hand – getting their daily exercise. Our little guy of 19 months loves to run along here watching birds that perch on the rocks, and waiting in eager anticipation for the train that passes by every half hour or so.
When we’re ready to leave, there is no uphill slog to find the car, especially when loaded with all the paraphernalia that goes with taking kids to the beach. The close, as well as safe, parking is a treat!
Other activities in the area include the Kalk Bay Park, and the penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town. Better yet, leave your car at home and take a train ride all the way to Fish Hoek. The views alone are worth the trip.
Photography Sarah Woods/HSMimages.co.za